Ventriculoperitoneal shunt infection after augmentation cystoplasty.

PURPOSE

We characterized the occurrence of ventriculoperitoneal shunt infections after augmentation cystoplasty.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We reviewed the records of 20 myelodysplastic children with ventriculoperitoneal shunts followed for a minimum of 12 months after augmentation.

RESULTS

In 4 children (20%) a ventriculoperitoneal shunt infection developed. The single gram-positive infection occurred early (less than 30 days). The 3 gram-negative infections were delayed presentations (greater than 30 days). Organisms in 2 of the 3 gram-negative infections had been noted in a preoperative urine culture.

CONCLUSIONS

Ventriculoperitoneal shunt infection after bladder augmentation is common. Delayed presentation of shunt infections may indicate gram-negative infection. Sterilization of the urinary tract is indicated before augmentation.